The Community Networks Cancer Health Disparities Summit 2005 is a three-day event that convenes cancer researchers, community partners, and others from diverse populations and disciplines to meet with NCI staff for the purpose of sharing experiences and discussing the principles and practices of cancer health research that directly benefits local communities. The Summit features both didactic lectures and interactive presentations on a variety of research topics by experts in their respective disciplines. This year's Summit responds to feedback from participants at previous Summits and lessons learned through the experiences of NCI-sponsored community-based initiatives, while focusing on the immediate needs of the Community Networks.